As we move through the final stretch of winter, it’s easy to think that landscape care can take a backseat until spring arrives. However, late winter is actually a prime time for commercial property owners and facilities managers to prepare their landscapes for the season ahead. Taking a few proactive steps now can ensure your commercial landscape thrives as warmer weather approaches. Here's how you can maximize late winter landscaping efforts for long-term success.
Late winter, before the new growth starts, is an excellent time to prune trees and shrubs. Dormant pruning helps maintain the shape of your landscape, removes dead or damaged branches, and improves the health of plants. Focusing on trees with overgrown or brittle limbs can prevent potential safety hazards as we head into spring storms. It’s also the best time to prune deciduous trees and shrubs without interfering with their blooming cycles.
Irrigation systems are essential for your landscape’s health, but winter temperatures can cause pipes to freeze or components to degrade. Late winter is the perfect time to inspect your irrigation system, ensuring there are no leaks or blockages. Schedule a professional inspection to make sure everything is functioning properly before the irrigation season kicks into full gear. Check for broken sprinkler heads, clogged emitters, or faulty timers to ensure your system runs efficiently when spring arrives.
Late winter is also an ideal time to plan for spring planting. Use this time to review the landscape design and determine any areas that may need new plantings or seasonal color. This can be the perfect opportunity to incorporate drought-tolerant or low-maintenance plants, improving sustainability and reducing water use as temperatures rise. Consider choosing plants that thrive in your specific climate and provide the look and feel your property needs. Getting your planting plan ready early will ensure a smooth transition into spring.
Winter storms, winds, and snow can leave your landscape looking untidy. Clean up debris such as fallen branches, leaves, and litter, which can impede healthy plant growth. It’s also a good time to replenish mulch in garden beds. Fresh mulch helps retain moisture, prevents weeds, and insulates plant roots. Apply a new layer of mulch to ensure your landscape is prepared for spring growth, while also giving your property a neat and tidy appearance.
The harsh winter months can leave their mark on your landscape. Frost, snow, and ice can cause damage to plantings, walkways, and other outdoor features. Late winter is the time to assess any damage that may have occurred and plan for necessary repairs. Whether it’s fixing cracked pavement, replacing damaged shrubs, or addressing soil erosion, handling these issues early can prevent more costly repairs in the future.
Winter dormancy doesn’t mean pests and diseases go away. Late winter is an ideal time to inspect trees, shrubs, and lawns for early signs of pests or fungal diseases. Look for any discoloration on leaves, unusual growth patterns, or insect activity. Addressing these issues early can help prevent the spread of infestations and keep your landscape healthy throughout the warmer months.
During the winter months, heavy snow and ice can create hazardous conditions on your property’s walkways and parking lots. While we may be nearing the end of the season, it's crucial to continue clearing snow and salting high-traffic areas. Doing so not only keeps your employees and visitors safe but also helps protect the surfaces from damage caused by repeated freezing and thawing.
As spring approaches, it’s a great time to consider making your landscape more sustainable. Transitioning to native plants, installing rainwater harvesting systems, or incorporating energy-efficient lighting are great ways to reduce environmental impact. Late winter is the perfect time to set goals for a greener, more sustainable property, so you can start planning projects for the warmer months ahead.
Although it may seem like a quiet time for commercial landscaping, late winter is full of opportunities to prepare your property for a thriving spring season. By staying proactive with pruning, irrigation, and general maintenance, you’ll set your landscape up for success. Not only will your commercial property look its best, but you’ll also ensure that it’s healthy, safe, and ready to shine when warmer weather arrives.
If you need help with any of these late winter landscape tasks or want to schedule an inspection, reach out to a professional landscaping company. We can guide you through the process and help prepare your property for the seasons ahead.
